In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) is rewriting the narrative by fostering gender inclusivity through its groundbreaking initiative, CREW (Collective of Real Estate Women). While women influence nearly 70 per cent of property purchase decisions, their representation in the real estate workforce lags at a mere 10–12 per cent. Recognising this imbalance, CREW aims to bridge the gap, empowering women professionals and inspiring long-term careers in a male-dominated sector.
Launched initially in Mumbai and Pune, CREW has evolved into a national movement, with its latest expansion set for Delhi. Through networking opportunities, mentorship programmes, and skill-building workshops, the initiative addresses the isolation women often experience in this sector. “Women frequently find themselves as the lone female presence on their teams, which can discourage retention,” explains Megha Goel, Chief Human Resources Officer, Godrej Properties. CREW connects women professionals across roles, enabling them to thrive in real estate, construction, and allied fields.
From a sustainability angle, the initiative supports economic diversity and gender equality, key components of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Inclusive workspaces foster innovation, enabling companies like Godrej Properties to address housing challenges more holistically. By empowering women, CREW enhances the industry’s ability to deliver sustainable and community-focused solutions. On an urban scale, initiatives like CREW hold the potential to catalyse wider societal shifts. Encouraging women to participate in real